Proofreaders and Copy Markers
Proofreaders and copy markers read the transcript or proof type setup to detect and mark for correction any grammatical, typographical, or compositional errors. This excludes workers whose primary duty is editing copy and includes proofreaders of braille.
Proofreaders and copy markers are language professionals who check the writer’s and editor’s final copy of a piece of writing for any changes. They point out mistakes, make suggestions, check references, ensure originality and seldom write original content. They take an in-depth look at writings for smaller errors like letter casing, spelling or punctuations.
Proofreading jobs are usually familiar with not only the language but the area of content. Their reviews help find mistakes that may easily be ignored by writers and editors. Some other responsibilities of proofreaders include checking headlines/headings, captions, font, size, colour, alignment, etc.
To become a proofreader, one may need a bachelor's degree in English (or relevant language), journalism, communication or a related field. They should have good writing skills and lower-level editing or proofreading experience. Proofreaders keep up-to-date with new terminologies and writing standards. With experience and success, they may go on to become editors or writers.
Proofreading rates are dependent not only on one’s experience but also on the size and type of industry they work in. Common employers include all publication and media companies and some marketing, public relations and advertising firms. A proofreader’s salary may be fixed or depend on their work as per contract.
To have a successful proofreading career, one needs to have top-notch language skills, be attentive to details, have good concentration and have the ability to work alone.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Journalism and Mass Communication
- M.A. Journalism
- B.A. Journalism
- B.A. Mass Media
Tasks
- Correct or record omissions, errors, or inconsistencies found.
- Mark copy to indicate and correct errors in type, arrangement, grammar, punctuation, or spelling, using standard printers' marks.
- Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
- Compare information or figures on one record against same data on other records, or with original copy, to detect errors.
- Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.
- Route proofs with marked corrections to authors, editors, typists, or typesetters for correction or reprinting.
- Read proof sheets aloud, calling out punctuation marks and spelling unusual words and proper names.
- Consult with authors and editors regarding manuscript changes and suggestions.
- Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.
- Write original content such as headlines, cutlines, captions, and cover copy.
Progression Routes
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